Technology is not destiny - connectivity and the human brain

If you have a spare time this half term when you can sit down and listen to some podcasts and lectures can I recommend this hugely thought-provoking talk from futurist Richard Watson in an address at the RSA last Thursday.

In his address, Richard Watson explores the ways in which constant digital connect may be impacting on human brain development - are we in danger of being continually distracted? And distractions lead to mistakes. How strong are the cultural pressures to leave technology on? Is an avalanche of text depriving us of context? Is addictive technology damaging relationships and eroding our empathy and tolerance? Crucially is the array of new and emerging technologies adversely affecting our ability to generate ideas and be innovative in business and society? Will the Turn it Off movement gather as much momentum as the Slow Movement?

This lecture forms part of the RSA’s Social Brain project and will be of particular interest to teachers who are embracing new technologies as tools for teaching and learning but who value an alternative approach to challenge our views. Last week I also went to London to hear Don Tapscott laud the positive impact that new digital collaborative tools can have in reshaping institutions and society. This is a well crafted and persuasive counter-view.

Richard Watson’s What’ Next website can be found here.